Aspects of the Biology of the Gabon Shrimp Atya gabonensis, Giebel 1875 in the Cross River, Nigeria

Atya gabonensis Giebel (Atyidae) is a freshwater shrimp endemic to West Africa. In the Cross River system, it inhabits the rocky bottom characteristic of the central to northern section of the Cross River. Its reproductive biology and feeding habits were studied from January to June 2006. The onset of spawning was indicated in March by the prevalence of soft-bodied specimens in catch samples. Fecundity of berried females varied with size and month. With a size range of 6.5-11 cm, fecundity varied from 850-12,220 eggs/female during the study period. The stomach content analysis revealed dominance of detritus, indicating that the species could have filtered organic particles from water column and/or near the usually rocky bottom. Conserving the natural habitats of this species, as well as exploring its aquaculture and aquarium potentials are imperative for the improved food-protein intake of the local communities in particular.